Open letter from former military commanders in support of access to responsible businesses offering reliable financial products and opportunities

We are writing to encourage your support for our men and women in uniform by ensuring their access to legitimate, reputable financial opportunities beyond those offered by the U.S. government.

Specifically, Trans World Assurance Company and American Fidelity Life Insurance Company have a long history of serving and supporting our military. Founded more than 45 years ago by WWII veteran Charles Woodbury, these companies served as a founding underwriter of the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance, (SGLI) which continues to provide insurance to our military families today. The Woodbury family remains deeply involved in the business, dedicated to the mission of supporting our military personnel. Based on many years of experience, each of us considers Barbara Woodbury – daughter of these companies’ founder – to be a true patriot. In both her personal and professional endeavors, Barbara works tirelessly in support of our troops and their families, and we hold her in the highest regard.

Sadly, we recognize that all companies and their executives do not maintain the same ethical standards that we accept as “common virtues” of those in uniform. We applaud vigilant leaders who protect our dedicated military personnel from unscrupulous sales practices, but we would ask that you not punish all companies for the actions of a few.

We are not employees or otherwise affiliated with either of these companies. Our only interest is in providing today’s military members with access to credible, legitimate financial opportunities. We believe that those who defend our country deserve the opportunity to supplement their government programs with products from other providers, especially when those providers have a good track record. We encourage you to ensure they have access to the same diversity of financial opportunities enjoyed by our nation’s civilian workforce. Armed with accurate information on available opportunities, we are confident that today’s men and women in uniform will make educated decisions that will positively impact their future.